RPU warns of recent utility scam calls
Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) has heard from customers that scam calls are being made to some RPU customers. RPU staff has collected information regarding the scam from customers to share with all RPU customers and the Rochester community.
The Scam –The callers are targeting commercial customers, but residential customers need to be vigilant as well. A caller states that they are from RPU and that a payment must be made to avoid disconnection. On caller ID the phone number shown is RPU’s customer line 507.280.1500 by using technology that can manipulate the number to show RPU’s actual customer service line. If the call goes unanswered, a message is left stating to call the phone number 1.844.287.6955. This is not an RPU phone number. When called, they use RPU’s on-hold messaging and then the person answering says that they are from RPU, but they are not an RPU employee or affiliated with RPU.
Identifying a Scam – RPU will never request bank or secure personal information from you over the phone unless you ask to discuss your account. The RPU representative will then ask for information to identify who you are.
What to do if you receive a scam call:
- If someone calls threatening to cut off your power if you don’t pay, hang up.
- Call RPU at 507.280.1500 to report the scam.
- Never give personal or financial information to an unknown caller.
- Remember that RPU will never use threatening language or make forceful demands for payment.
About Rochester Public Utilities
As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 53,000 customers. Water customers number more than 39,000. RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive. Current initiatives include fuel cell research, wind power, and photovoltaic offerings.